JP2012198771A - Operation panel device and image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an operation panel device and an image forming apparatus which maintains a multi-function of the image forming apparatus while the operation panel device is constituted to be compact, and which is capable of improving the visibility of the operation panel device for a user.SOLUTION: An operation panel device comprises a first and a second panels constituted to be relatively movable along a surface in parallel with a display surface. Either of the first or the second panels is fixed to an image forming apparatus. At least one of the first and the second panels includes a first group of keys provided in an area exposed no matter what relative position the first and the second panels take. One of the first and the second panels includes a second group of keys provided in an area exposed when the first and the second panels are not overlapped with each other.

Description

  The present invention relates to an operation panel device and an image forming apparatus.

  Various operation keys such as a mode switching key and a one-touch key are provided in an operation panel device used for operation of a conventional image forming apparatus. As the number of functions has increased in recent years, the number of operation keys to be arranged has increased, and the size of the operation panel device tends to increase. In addition, the arrangement of operation keys on the operation surface of the operation panel device has become complicated.

  Further, in an image forming apparatus having a function of discharging recorded paper in a space formed between the reading unit and the image forming unit, the number of operation keys increases due to the high functionality of the imaging device. A large operation panel device is formed on the front surface (side on which the user operates). In this case, when viewed from the user, it is impossible to confirm the sheet that is blocked by the operation panel device and discharged to the space from above the image forming apparatus. There is also a strong demand for improving the visibility of the operation panel device itself.

  Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2001-337501 discloses an operation panel device mounted on a facsimile machine or the like. This operation panel device includes a plurality of keys and includes an operation panel device that is fixedly attached to the main body, and a one touch panel that includes a plurality of keys and is attachable so as to be able to be pulled out from the main body. It is disposed in the vicinity of one side of the main body so that it can be opened and closed.

  The acoustic device disclosed in Patent Document 2 (Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 8-72624) is arranged by separating and arranging the key part of the on-vehicle operation panel into a frequently used key area part and a less frequently used key area part. When the possible display unit is slid and moved to the left, the frequently used key area can be operated, and when moved to the right, the less frequently used key area can be operated.

JP 2001-337501 A JP-A-8-72624

  In order to avoid an increase in the size of the operation panel device, it is necessary to delete an operation key having a certain function simply by reducing the size of the operation panel device, which results in hindering the multi-functionalization required for the image forming apparatus. .

  Further, in image forming apparatuses, functions as an image forming apparatus are often realized not only by instructions from an operation panel apparatus but also by instructions from a personal computer as an external apparatus. For example, an image forming apparatus outputs recorded paper based on a print output instruction from a personal computer. For this reason, operation keys that are less frequently used need not be exposed at all times.

  The present invention has been made in order to solve the above-described problems. The present invention is configured to make the operation panel device compact while maintaining the multi-function of the image forming apparatus, and to visually recognize the operation panel device by the user. An object of the present invention is to provide an operation panel device and an image forming apparatus that can improve the performance.

  According to one aspect of the present invention, an operation panel device having a display surface attached to an image forming apparatus is provided. The operation panel device includes first and second panels configured to be relatively movable along a plane parallel to the display surface. One of the first and second panels is fixed to the image forming apparatus. At least one of the first and second panels includes a first group of keys disposed in a region where the first panel and the second panel are exposed regardless of their relative positions. One of the first and second panels includes a second group of keys disposed in a region exposed when the first panel and the second panel do not overlap.

  Preferably, the first group of keys is commonly used for a plurality of processes that can be executed by the image forming apparatus, and the second group of keys is used for the first group of the plurality of processes that can be executed by the image forming apparatus. Used for fewer processes than the number of processes in which the key is used.

  Preferably, the operation panel device further includes a display device that provides a display surface. The display device is mounted on a panel different from the panel fixed to the image forming apparatus.

  Preferably, the first panel is fixed to the image forming apparatus, and the second panel is disposed on a side opposite to the side on which the image forming apparatus is located with respect to the first panel. The projected area with respect to a plane parallel to the display surface of the second panel is smaller than the projected area of the first panel. When the first panel and the first panel are not overlapped with the first group of keys arranged in the exposed area regardless of the relative position of the second panel with respect to the second panel And a second group of keys arranged in the exposed area. The second panel includes a first group of keys arranged in a region exposed at any relative position with respect to the first panel.

  More preferably, the second group of keys arranged on the second panel includes a group of keys for inputting numbers.

  More preferably, the mechanism that allows the first panel and the second panel to move relative to each other is configured such that the exposure amount of the region in which the second group of keys of the second panel is arranged varies in a plurality of stages. Has been.

  Alternatively, and more preferably, the first panel and the second panel are relatively movable in both the first direction and the second direction opposite to the first direction, and the second panel is And a second group of keys arranged in an area exposed when relatively moved in the first direction and a second group of keys arranged in an area exposed when relatively moved in the second direction. .

  Or more preferably, the first panel and the second panel are relatively movable in both the first direction and the second direction opposite to the first direction, and the first panel is , And a second group of keys arranged in a region that is exposed when relatively moved in the first direction and exposed when relatively moved in the second direction.

  More preferably, the second group of keys arranged on the first panel further includes an interrupt key arranged close to the group of keys for inputting numbers.

  Alternatively, more preferably, the second group of keys arranged on the first panel further includes voice guide keys arranged close to the key group for inputting numbers.

  Alternatively, preferably, the second group of keys arranged on the first panel includes a key group for inputting characters.

  More preferably, the second group of keys arranged on the first panel further includes a key group for inputting numbers.

  Alternatively, preferably, the first panel includes a movable part in which the second group of keys is arranged, and is movable in response to the relative movement of the first panel and the second panel in the first direction. The part relatively moves in the second direction opposite to the first direction in the first panel.

  Or preferably, the ridgeline part of the 2nd panel corresponding to the area | region exposed by relative movement of a 1st panel and a 2nd panel is comprised by the non-right-angled shape.

  Alternatively, preferably, in the second panel, the display device is arranged on the same side as the moving direction of the second panel, and the key is arranged on the opposite side to the moving direction.

  Preferably, the first panel is disposed on the image forming apparatus side, and the second panel is disposed on the side opposite to the side on which the image forming apparatus is located with respect to the first panel. . The projected area of the second panel with respect to the plane parallel to the display surface is smaller than the projected area of the first panel, and the region exposed at any relative position of the first panel is perpendicular to the display surface. The position on the line substantially coincides with the position of the exposed surface of the second panel.

  Preferably, the operation panel device further includes a fixing mechanism for fixing a state where the first panel and the second panel do not overlap.

  More preferably, the fixing mechanism includes a stopper penetrating the first panel and the second panel from the side opposite to the side where the display surface exists.

More preferably, the fixing mechanism further includes a mechanism for urging the rod-shaped stopper.
Preferably, the operation panel device is disposed on the side opposite to the paper discharge direction of the image forming apparatus and at a position that does not protrude from the side surface of the image forming apparatus.

  Preferably, the direction in which the first panel or the second panel is moved to generate the exposed region is the same as the paper discharge direction.

  Preferably, the direction in which the first panel or the second panel is moved to generate the exposed region is opposite to the paper discharge direction.

  More preferably, the operation panel device further includes a display device that provides a display surface, and the display device is attached to a panel fixed to the image forming apparatus.

  More preferably, a key group for inputting numbers is arranged on a panel different from the panel fixed to the image forming apparatus.

  According to another aspect of the present invention, an image forming apparatus including the operation panel device as described above is provided.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to make the operation panel device compact while maintaining the multi-functionality of the image forming apparatus, and to improve the visibility of the operation panel device by the user.

1 is a perspective view showing an overall configuration of an image forming apparatus on which an operation panel device according to an embodiment of the present invention is mounted. It is a perspective view which shows the basic structure of the operation panel apparatus according to embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram showing an example of a key layout of the operation panel device according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows the slide form (the 1) of the operation panel apparatus according to embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows the slide form (the 2) of the operation panel apparatus according to embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows the slide form (the 3) of the operation panel apparatus according to embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows the slide form (the 4) of the operation panel apparatus according to embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows the slide form (the 5) of the operation panel apparatus according to embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows the example of arrangement | positioning of the numeric keypad of the operation panel apparatus according to embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows the example of arrangement | positioning of the numeric keypad of the operation panel apparatus according to embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows the example of arrangement | positioning of the numeric keypad of the operation panel apparatus according to embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows the example of arrangement | positioning of the numeric keypad of the operation panel apparatus according to embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows the structure for exposing the ten key of the operation panel apparatus according to embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows the structure for exposing the operation panel apparatus numeric keypad according to embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows the structure for exposing the ten key of the operation panel apparatus according to embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows the example of a keyboard key arrangement | positioning of the operation panel apparatus according to embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows the example of a keyboard key arrangement | positioning of the operation panel apparatus according to embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows the example of arrangement | positioning of the numeric keypad and keyboard key of the operation panel apparatus according to embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows the example of arrangement | positioning of the numeric keypad and keyboard key of the operation panel apparatus according to embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows the example of arrangement | positioning of the numeric keypad and keyboard key of the operation panel apparatus according to embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows the structural example for implement | achieving the relative movement of the panel of the operation panel apparatus according to embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the slide mechanism for implement | achieving the relative movement of the panel shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the slide mechanism for implement | achieving the relative movement of the panel shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the slide mechanism for implement | achieving the relative movement of the panel shown in FIG. It is a schematic diagram which shows another structural example for implement | achieving the relative movement of the panel of the operation panel apparatus according to embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows the structural example for implement | achieving the relative movement to the multiple directions of the panel of the operation panel apparatus according to embodiment of this invention. FIG. 27 is a schematic diagram more specifically showing a slide operation corresponding to the slide operations (1) to (3) shown in FIG. It is a schematic diagram which shows the structure in which both a panel and an operation key group are relatively movable. It is a schematic diagram which shows the shape of the upper panel which comprises the operation panel apparatus according to this Embodiment. It is a schematic diagram which shows the structural example for improving the press tolerance from a user. It is a schematic diagram which shows the structural example for strengthening the connection force between two panels. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram (No. 1) showing a fixing structure between panels in the operation panel device according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a schematic diagram (the 2) which shows the fixing structure between the panels in the operation panel apparatus according to embodiment of this invention. FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram (No. 3) showing a fixing structure between panels in the operation panel device according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure for demonstrating a certain preferable attachment position of the operation panel apparatus according to embodiment of this invention. It is a figure for demonstrating a certain preferable sliding direction of the operation panel apparatus according to embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows the operation panel apparatus which employ | adopted the pop-up structure according to embodiment of this invention.

  An operation panel device according to each embodiment of the present invention and an image forming apparatus equipped with the same will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that in the embodiments described below, when referring to the number, amount, and the like, the scope of the present invention is not necessarily limited to the number, amount, and the like unless otherwise specified. The same parts and corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description may not be repeated.

  In addition, it is planned from the beginning to use the structures in the embodiments in appropriate combinations.

<A. Overall Configuration of Image Forming Apparatus>
FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an overall configuration of an image forming apparatus on which an operation panel device according to an embodiment of the present invention is mounted. FIG. 1 illustrates a multi function peripheral (MFP) equipped with a plurality of functions such as a scanner function, a copy function, a facsimile function, a network function, and a BOX function as a typical example of an image forming apparatus.

  Image forming apparatus MFP according to the present embodiment includes a scanner 2 that optically reads a document to obtain image data, and a print engine 6 that prints an image on a sheet based on the image data. On the upper surface of the main body of image forming apparatus MFP, a feeder 4 for feeding a document to scanner 2 is arranged, and at the lower part, a plurality of paper feeding sections 9 for feeding paper to print engine 6 are arranged. Further, a central portion of image forming apparatus MFP has tray 8 on which the paper on which an image is formed by print engine 6 is discharged.

  Operation panel device 1 having a display surface is mounted on the front side (the side facing the user) of the upper surface of the main body of image forming apparatus MFP. Operation panel device 1 is a device for operating image forming apparatus MFP. As will be described later, the operation panel device 1 includes a plurality of keys for accepting operations such as various instructions from the user and inputs such as numbers, characters, and symbols, and a display device. As this display device, it is preferable to employ a touch panel in which an input function and a display function are integrated. A display device configured with a touch panel displays various information in response to a user operation and / or a menu screen for receiving various operations to the user, acquires a position touched by the user, and acquires the position Input information corresponding to the position is obtained. Hereinafter, the detailed structure of operation panel device 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described from various aspects with reference to the drawings.

<B. Basic structure of operation panel device>
First, the basic structure of operation panel device 1 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a basic structure of operation panel device 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 2, operation panel device 1 according to the present embodiment includes first panel 100 and second panel 200 configured to be relatively movable along a plane parallel to the display surface. As described later, typically, one of first panel 100 and second panel 200 is fixed to image forming apparatus MFP. Then, the projection area of the first panel 100 and the second panel 200 as shown in FIG. 2A is minimized by moving (sliding) the panel that is not fixed to the image forming apparatus MFP with respect to the fixed panel. And a state where the projected areas of the first panel 100 and the second panel 200 are larger as shown in FIG. 2B. The state shown in FIG. 2A is also expressed as “closed state”, and the state shown in FIG. 2B is also expressed as “open state”.

  Although FIG. 1 illustrates a configuration in which the first panel 100 and the second panel 200 slide along the longitudinal direction of the first panel 100 and the second panel 200, they may slide along the short side direction. . Furthermore, it may be configured to slide in a plurality of axial directions.

  In operation panel device 1, display device 50 formed of a touch panel is mounted on the surface of a panel located closer to the user, that is, at a position farther from image forming apparatus MFP. The display device 50 accepts user operations and presents various information to the user.

  In the operation panel device 1, the first group of keys is exposed in the region of the first panel 100 and / or the second panel 200 that is exposed regardless of the relative position of the first panel 100 and the second panel 200. Is placed. Further, one of the first panel 100 and the second panel 200 has a second group of keys arranged in an area exposed when the first panel 100 and the second panel 200 do not overlap (that is, in an open state). The

  As described above, operation panel device 1 according to the present embodiment is configured by two overlapping panels, one panel being fixed to image forming apparatus MFP, and the other unfixed panel being fixed. By moving to a protruding state from the panel (when facing the operation panel device 1), the operation keys and the like are exposed.

  Operation panel device 1 according to the present embodiment has a function assigned to keys arranged at positions that can be operated even in a closed state, and a function assigned to keys arranged at positions that can be operated only after being opened. Thus, the operation panel device can be made compact while maintaining the multifunction of the image forming apparatus MFP. More specifically, the first group of keys is used in common over a plurality of processes that can be executed by image forming apparatus MFP, while the second group of keys is a plurality of processes that can be executed by image forming apparatus MFP. Of these, the first group of keys is used for a smaller number of processes than the number of processes used. As a typical example of the first group key and the second group key, it is preferable that a start key commonly used to instruct the start of a function provided by image forming apparatus MFP is included in the first group key. . On the other hand, a key group (numeric keypad) for inputting numbers is preferably used only for functions that require input of numerical values such as a copy function and a facsimile function, and is therefore preferably included in the second group of keys.

  In the example shown in FIG. 2, as a typical example of the first group of keys, the operation key group 10 is arranged on the surface of the first panel 100 and the operation key group 20 is arranged on the surface of the second panel 200. The region where these operation key groups 10 and 20 are arranged is exposed in either the closed state of FIG. 2A or the open state of FIG. 2B. On the other hand, the surface area 40 of the first panel 100 is exposed only in the open state, and the operation key group 30 as a typical example of the second group of keys is arranged in the surface area 40.

  That is, FIG. 2A shows a state in which the second panel 200 covers the operation key group 30 of the first panel 100 (closed state). In this state, the operation arranged on the surface of the first panel 100 is shown. Except for the key group 10, the entire surface of the first panel 100 is covered with the second panel 200. On the other hand, FIG. 2B shows a state in which the second panel 200 slides in the upper left direction in the drawing with respect to the first panel 100 (open state). In this state, the first panel 100 In addition to the operation key group 10 arranged on the surface, the operation key group 30 arranged in the surface region 40 is exposed. The user can operate the operation key group 30 substantially only when the operation panel device 1 is in the open state.

  Note that each of the operation key groups 10, 20, and 30 includes at least one key (hard key).

<C. Key layout of operation panel device>
Next, a key layout of operation panel device 1 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a key layout of operation panel device 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 3, operation key group 10 mainly includes keys used in common over a plurality of functions provided by image forming apparatus MFP. More specifically, the operation key group 10 includes a power save button 10a, a start button 10b, a stop button 10c, a reset button 10d, and a plurality of customizations (Customize). ) Button 10e. As described above, the operation key group 10 is a key that is always used by the user, and thus needs to be installed in a place where it can be easily recognized.

  Energy saving button 10a accepts an operation for switching image forming apparatus MFP to a state of lower power consumption. Start button 10b accepts an operation for starting a previously selected function in image forming apparatus MFP. The stop button 10c receives an operation for stopping the function being executed in response to the operation of the start button 10b. The reset button 10d accepts an operation for returning a state in which some setting has been made by an operation performed earlier to an initial state. Customize button 10e is used for a transition to a preset operation or state by a user using image forming apparatus MFP or the like.

  Operation key group 20 mainly includes keys used in common for managing a plurality of functions provided by image forming apparatus MFP. More specifically, the operation key group 20 includes a menu button 20a, an enlarge display button 20b, a guidance button 20c, an access button 20d, and a preview button. 20e. As described above, the operation key group 20 is a key related to the operation of the display device 50 (typically, a touch panel), and thus needs to be arranged on the same panel as the display device.

  The menu button 20a receives an operation for displaying a menu screen (for example, content displayed on the display device 50 in FIG. 3). The enlarge button 20b accepts an operation for enlarging and displaying the content displayed on the display device 50. Guidance button 20c accepts an operation for displaying a guidance menu (help menu) regarding functions and / or various operations provided by image forming apparatus MFP. Access button 20d accepts an operation for restricting users who can use image forming apparatus MFP. For example, when it is set so that only a user who is informed of a specific password can use image forming apparatus MFP, access button 20d is used for an operation for setting the password in an input state. The preview button 20e accepts an operation for confirming the finish or the like on the display device 50 before performing an image forming process on a sheet.

  Operation key group 30 is used for a number of processes smaller than the number of processes in which the first group of keys are used among a plurality of processes that can be executed by image forming apparatus MFP. In other words, operation key group 30 is used only for operations on specific functions provided by image forming apparatus MFP. Therefore, typically, it is assumed that the operation key group 30 is used less frequently than the operation key groups 10 and 20.

  More specifically, the operation key group 30 includes a numeric keypad 30a, a voice guide key 30b, a clear key 30c, and an interrupt key 30d. The numeric keypad 30a is a key group for inputting numbers, and typically includes ten keys from “0” to “9”. The clear key 30c accepts an operation for clearing a value input by the operation of the numeric keypad 30a performed previously. Interrupt key 30d accepts an operation for preferentially executing another job while image forming apparatus MFP is executing a certain job.

  Note that the key layout shown in FIG. 3 is merely an example, and the layout may be appropriately designed according to the function provided by image forming apparatus MFP, the corresponding user interface, and the like.

<D. Slide form of operation panel device>
As described above, operation panel device 1 according to the present embodiment only needs to be configured such that the two panel devices are relatively movable along a predetermined surface. Therefore, any panel device may be a fixed side (side attached to image forming apparatus MFP), and the sliding direction can be designed as appropriate. Below, four typical slide forms will be described.

[D1: Slide form of operation panel device (1)]
FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing a slide configuration (No. 1) of operation panel device 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention. In operation panel device 1 shown in FIG. 4, first panel 100 is attached to image forming apparatus MFP. 4A shows a state where the operation panel device 1 is closed, and FIG. 4B shows a state where the operation panel device 1 is opened. Thus, first panel 100 is fixed to image forming apparatus MFP, and second panel 200 is slidable in the horizontal direction on the paper surface.

  That is, in the operation panel shown in FIG. 4, first panel 100 is fixed to image forming apparatus MFP, and second panel 200 is opposite to the side on which image forming apparatus MFP is located with respect to first panel 100. Placed on the side. The projected area of the second panel 200 with respect to the plane parallel to the display surface is smaller than the projected area of the first panel 100. In other words, the surface area of the second panel 200 is smaller than the surface area of the first panel 100. Due to the difference in surface area, the first panel 100 has a region exposed at any relative position with respect to the second panel 200. The operation key group 10 is arranged in an area that is exposed at any of these relative positions. Further, the first panel 100 is provided with an operation key group 30 arranged in an area exposed when the first panel 100 and the second panel 200 do not overlap. In particular, the operation key group 30 includes a numeric keypad that is a key group for inputting numbers.

  In addition, the operation key group 20 is disposed on the second panel 200 in a region exposed at any relative position with respect to the first panel 100.

  Display device 50 providing the display surface is mounted on a panel different from the panel (first panel 100 in FIG. 4) fixed to image forming apparatus MFP. In this way, the display device 50 having a relatively light weight is arranged on the moving panel, which is advantageous in terms of strength design.

[D2: Slide form of operation panel device (2)]
FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing a slide configuration (No. 2) of operation panel device 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention. In operation panel device 1 shown in FIG. 5, first panel 100 is mounted on image forming apparatus MFP. FIG. 5A shows a state where the operation panel device 1 is closed, and FIG. 5B shows a state where the operation panel device 1 is opened. Thus, first panel 100 is fixed to image forming apparatus MFP, and second panel 200 is slidable in the horizontal direction on the paper surface.

  That is, in the operation panel shown in FIG. 5, first panel 100 is fixed to image forming apparatus MFP, and second panel 200 is opposite to the side on which image forming apparatus MFP is located with respect to first panel 100. Placed on the side. However, the projected areas of the first panel 100 and the second panel 200 with respect to the plane parallel to the display surface are substantially equal. Therefore, in the operation panel device 1 shown in FIG. 5, the operation key group 10 is arranged not on the first panel 100 but on the second panel 200. That is, the operation key groups 10 and 20 are arranged on the second panel 200 in a region that is exposed at any relative position with respect to the first panel 100.

  On the other hand, the first panel 100 is provided with an operation key group 30 arranged in a region exposed when the first panel 100 and the second panel 200 do not overlap. In particular, the operation key group 30 includes a numeric keypad that is a key group for inputting numbers.

  Also in the form shown in FIG. 5, display device 50 providing the display surface is mounted on a panel different from the panel (first panel 100 in the case of FIG. 5) fixed to image forming apparatus MFP. become.

[D3: Slide form of operation panel device (part 3)]
FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing a slide configuration (No. 3) of operation panel device 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention. In operation panel device 1 shown in FIG. 6, second panel 200 is mounted on image forming apparatus MFP. 6A shows a state where the operation panel device 1 is closed, and FIG. 6B shows a state where the operation panel device 1 is opened. As described above, the second panel 200 is fixed to the image forming apparatus MFP, and the first panel 100 is slidable in the horizontal direction on the paper surface.

  That is, in the operation panel shown in FIG. 6, second panel 200 is fixed to image forming apparatus MFP, and first panel 100 is arranged on the side where image forming apparatus MFP is located with respect to second panel 200. The However, the projected areas of the first panel 100 and the second panel 200 with respect to the plane parallel to the display surface are substantially equal. Therefore, in the operation panel device 1 shown in FIG. 6, the operation key group 10 is arranged not on the first panel 100 but on the second panel 200. That is, the operation key groups 10 and 20 are arranged on the second panel 200 in a region that is exposed at any relative position with respect to the first panel 100.

  On the other hand, the first panel 100 is provided with an operation key group 30 arranged in a region exposed when the first panel 100 and the second panel 200 do not overlap. In particular, the operation key group 30 includes a numeric keypad that is a key group for inputting numbers.

  In the form shown in FIG. 6, display device 50 that provides a display surface is attached to a panel (second panel 200 in the case of FIG. 6) fixed to image forming apparatus MFP.

[D4: Slide form of operation panel device (part 4)]
FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing a slide configuration (No. 4) of operation panel device 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention. In operation panel device 1 shown in FIG. 7, second panel 200 is attached to image forming apparatus MFP. FIG. 7A shows a state where the operation panel device 1 is closed, and FIG. 7B shows a state where the operation panel device 1 is opened. As described above, the second panel 200 is fixed to the image forming apparatus MFP, and the first panel 100 is slidable in the horizontal direction on the paper surface.

  That is, in the operation panel shown in FIG. 7, second panel 200 is fixed to image forming apparatus MFP, and first panel 100 is arranged on the side where image forming apparatus MFP is located with respect to second panel 200. The The projected area of the second panel 200 with respect to the plane parallel to the display surface is smaller than the projected area of the first panel 100. In other words, the surface area of the second panel 200 is smaller than the surface area of the first panel 100. Due to the difference in surface area, the first panel 100 has a region exposed at any relative position with respect to the second panel 200. The operation key group 10 is arranged in a region exposed at any of these relative positions. The first panel 100 is provided with an operation key group 30 arranged in a region exposed when the first panel 100 and the second panel 200 do not overlap. In particular, the operation key group 30 includes a numeric keypad that is a key group for inputting numbers.

  In addition, the operation key group 20 is disposed on the second panel 200 in a region exposed at any relative position with respect to the first panel 100.

[D5: Slide form of operation panel device (5)]
4 to 7 show a mode in which the operation key group 30 including the numeric keypad protrudes to the right side of the drawing by sliding, but the direction in which the operation key group 30 protrudes may be the left side of the drawing. In addition, according to the slide form shown in FIGS. 4-7, the moving direction of the panel on the moving side is slid to the same side as the side where the operation key group 30 is exposed (FIGS. 6 and 7), and the operation key. There is one that slides to the side opposite to the side from which the group 30 is exposed (FIGS. 4 and 5).

  FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing a slide configuration (No. 5) of operation panel device 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention. 8A to 8C are schematic views of the operation panel device 1 as viewed from the bottom side.

  8A and 8B schematically show the “closed state” and the “open state” of the operation panel device 1 shown in FIG. 4 as an example. In these examples, when the second panel 200 slides to the left side of the page, the operation key group 30 including the numeric keys arranged in the area on the right side of the first panel 100 is exposed and can be operated by the user. .

  On the other hand, in FIG. 8C, an operation key group 30 including a numeric keypad is arranged in the left side area of the first panel 100, and the second panel 200 slides to the right side of the page, so that the user Can be operated.

  Generally, from the viewpoint of improving the operability, it is preferable that the operation key group 30 including the numeric keypad is exposed to the right side from the viewpoint of a right-handed user. It is preferable that the operation key group 30 including it is exposed on the left side. Therefore, for example, it is preferable that the operation key group 30 including the numeric keypad is configured to be exposed to an arbitrary side according to the user's dominant hand.

[D6: Summary]
As shown in FIG. 4 to FIG. 8, the operation key groups 10, 20, and 30 each composed of one or more hard keys are (1) a constantly exposed area of the fixed panel, and (2) a movable panel. (3) a region exposed when the stationary panel is open, and (4) a region exposed when the movable panel is open. In this manner, hard keys that are increasing as the number of functions of image forming apparatus MFP increases can be distributed and laid out. Thereby, the panel surface (operation surface) of the operation panel device is arranged, and the operation panel device can be prevented from being unnecessarily enlarged.

  More specifically, the operation key group consisting of hard keys is (i) arranged at a position fixed with respect to the main body of the image forming apparatus MFP, (ii) at a position fixed with respect to the display apparatus. Arranged (however, when the panel including the display device moves, it moves with the movement), (iii) Arranged at a fixed position with respect to the numeric keypad (however, including the numeric keypad) When the panel moves, it moves with the movement).

  As described above, the area that is exposed only after the panel located on the upper side (closer to the user) moves relative to the panel located on the lower side (closer to the image forming apparatus MFP) (usually a hidden area). By arranging a group of operation keys including hard keys such as numeric keys, it is possible to hide operation keys that the user does not always use. That is, by hiding operation keys that are relatively infrequently used, the space of the operation panel device can be saved. Even in this case, the user can operate by sliding the panel to expose these operation key groups.

<E. Frequency of use of numeric keypad on operation panel device>
As a usage form of a multifunction machine equipped with a plurality of functions, a form in which an electronic document created by a personal computer or the like is printed from a conventional form in which a user directly operates the operation panel device to copy (copy) a paper document. Is becoming mainstream. That is, in many offices or the like, the frequency of using the image forming apparatus MFP as a “printer” that is an output destination of a personal computer is increasing. As described above, as the use of a print destination from a personal computer has become mainstream, the frequency with which the user uses the numeric keypad provided on operation panel device 1 of image forming apparatus MFP is decreasing. It is guessed. However, since the use of copying from a conventional paper document still remains, the numeric keypad cannot be eliminated at all. Also from the viewpoint of universal design, a numeric keypad is necessary.

  Therefore, the numeric keypad is placed in an area that is exposed only after the panel located on the upper side (closer to the user) moves (normally the hidden area) relative to the panel located on the lower side (closer to the image forming apparatus MFP). By arranging, it is possible to deal with a conventional user operation and to realize space saving of the operation panel device 1.

  9 to 12 are schematic diagrams showing examples of numeric keypad arrangement of operation panel device 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 shows an example of numeric keypad arrangement corresponding to the operation panel device 1 shown in FIG. That is, FIG. 9A shows an example in which the operation key group 30 including the numeric keys 30a is arranged on the right side of the first panel 100 in the drawing. In this case, as shown in FIG. 9B, the numeric keypad 30a is arranged in a state of being embedded in the first panel 100.

  As shown in FIG. 9, in the panel located on the lower side (near the image forming apparatus MFP), when the numeric keys 30a are arranged vertically (arranged in the vertical direction on the paper surface), as shown in FIG. The sliding direction of the panel located closer to the user is preferably the left-right direction with respect to the front of the operation panel device 1. In addition, since the arrangement order of the numeric keys 30a is defined according to the universal design, the position where the numeric keys 30a exist can be easily specified.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 11, on the panel located on the lower side (near the image forming apparatus MFP), the numeric keys 30a can be horizontally arranged (arranged in the left-right direction on the paper). In this case, as shown in FIG. 11, it is preferable that the sliding direction of the panel located on the upper side is the vertical direction with respect to the front surface of the operation panel device 1. As described above, in the panel located on the lower side, when the numeric keys 30a are arranged horizontally, the slide amount (movement amount) of the panel located on the upper side can be reduced.

  As shown in FIG. 10, when the numeric keys 30a are arranged according to a predetermined rule, the voice guide key 30b and / or the interrupt key 30d are preferably arranged close to the numeric keys 30a. That is, as shown in FIG. 12, the operation key group 30 arranged on the first panel 100 includes a voice guide key 30b and an interrupt key arranged close to a numeric keypad 30a that is a key group for inputting numbers. 30d included.

  As described above, normally, the voice guide key 30b and / or the interrupt key 30d are arranged in the vicinity of the numeric keypad 30a arranged in the hidden area, thereby increasing the degree of concentration of the hard key arrangement and improving the user operability. improves.

<F. Numeric keypad and user's handedness in operation panel device>
Next, in the case where the numeric keypad 30a is arranged in an area exposed when the first panel 100 and the second panel 200 do not overlap, in order to further improve the user's operability, the form is changed according to the user's dominant hand. It may be changed. Such an example will be described below.

(F1: Handling dominant hand (1))
FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration for exposing the numeric keypad of operation panel device 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention. In the operation panel device 1 shown in FIG. 13, an example is shown in which an operation key group 30 including a numeric keypad is arranged in an area that is normally hidden on the first panel 100. It is assumed that the numeric keys are arranged vertically (arranged in the vertical direction on the paper).

  In such a configuration, it is preferable to vary the slide amount (movement amount) of the second panel 200 positioned on the upper side according to the dominant hand. That is, there is a difference in height (gap) between the surface of the numeric keypad disposed on the first panel 100 and the surface of the second panel 200. If this gap is close to the numeric keypad, Interference with the second panel 200 (such as the end face thereof) reduces operability. Therefore, it is preferable to change the margin (space) around the numeric keypad according to the user's dominant hand.

  More specifically, in the case where the second panel 200 is slid to the left in the drawing as shown in FIG. 13, for the right-handed user, the sliding amount (movement) of the second panel 200 located on the upper side Amount) is set to A, and for the left-handed user, the slide amount (movement amount) of the second panel 200 positioned on the upper side is set to B (> A). The user whose right hand is right does not interfere with the second panel 200 because the user operates the operation key group 30 from the right side of the page. Therefore, it is sufficient to slide until the operation key group 30 is sufficiently exposed. On the other hand, the user whose left hand is the dominant hand operates the operation key group 30 by hand from the left side of the paper, and thus easily interferes with the second panel 200. Therefore, it is necessary to slide until the operation key group 30 is sufficiently exposed until a space for moving the hand by the user can be secured.

  As a mechanism for changing the slide amount as described above, a configuration in which a user's dominant hand is set in advance, the user to be used is authenticated, and the corresponding movement amount is automatically slid may be employed. Alternatively, a latch mechanism or the like may be provided so that the second panel 200 is fixed at each position, and the user may slide to a position according to his / her dominant hand.

  In the case where the second panel 200 slides in the right direction on the paper surface, the magnitude relationship between the sliding amounts is reversed.

  As described above, in the operation panel device 1 shown in FIG. 13, the mechanism that allows the first panel 100 and the second panel 200 to move relative to each other is the exposure of the region where the operation key group 30 of the second panel 200 is disposed. Configured to vary the quantity to multiple. By adopting such a configuration, the operability of the user with respect to the numeric keypad can be improved, and the user can cope with any dominant hand.

(F2: Handling dominant hand (2))
Next, as described with reference to FIG. 8 described above, the operation panel device 1 configured to expose different areas according to the user's dominant hand will be described.

  FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration for exposing the numeric keypad of operation panel device 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 14, operation panel device 1 is configured such that operation key group 30 including a numeric keypad is arranged on each of the left side and the right side of first panel 100 located on the lower side (near image forming apparatus MFP). Indicates. FIG. 14A shows a state in which the operation key group 30 disposed on the left side of the first panel 100 is exposed as the second panel 200 slides to the right side of the page. FIG. 14A shows a state in which the operation key group 30 arranged on the right side of the first panel 100 is exposed as the second panel 200 slides to the left side of the page.

  Thus, the user can arbitrarily select the sliding direction of the second panel 200 according to his / her dominant hand. That is, the user whose dominant hand is on the left slides the second panel 200 as shown in FIG. 14A to expose the left operation key group 30 closer to the dominant hand, and the user whose dominant hand is on the right is shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 14B, the second panel 200 is slid to expose the right operation key group 30 closer to the dominant hand.

  As described above, in the operation panel device 1 shown in FIG. 14, the first panel 100 and the second panel 200 can be moved relative to each other rightward and leftward on the paper surface, and the second panel 200 faces rightward on the paper surface. The operation key group 30 is disposed in the area exposed when it is relatively moved (left side of the sheet), and the operation key group 30 is disposed in the area exposed when it is relatively moved leftward (right side of the sheet).

  By adopting such a configuration, the operability of the user with respect to the numeric keypad can be improved, and the user can cope with any dominant hand.

(F3: Handling dominant hand (3))
Next, the second panel 200 positioned on the upper side (closer to the user) is slid in a direction corresponding to the user's dominant hand, and a common operation key group including a numeric keypad disposed on the lower side (closer to the image forming apparatus MFP) is displayed. The structure to be exposed will be described.

  FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration for exposing the numeric keypad of operation panel device 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention. About FIG. 15 (A)-FIG.15 (C), sectional drawing seen from the bottom face side of the operation panel apparatus 1 is shown.

  Referring to FIG. 15A, operation panel device 1 includes a first panel 100 in which operation key group 30 including a numeric keypad is arranged at the center, on the lower side (near image forming apparatus MFP). The second panel 200 is slidable with respect to the panel 100 in either the left direction or the right direction. As shown in FIG. 15B, the right-handed user can operate the operation key group 30 in a state where the hand does not interfere with the second panel 200 by sliding the second panel 200 to the left side of the drawing. On the other hand, the left-handed user can operate the operation key group 30 in a state where the hand does not interfere with the second panel 200 by sliding the second panel 200 to the right side of the page as shown in FIG.

  As described above, in the operation panel device 1 shown in FIG. 15, the first panel 100 and the second panel 200 are configured to be relatively movable both leftward and rightward. The first panel 100 includes an operation key group 30 that is disposed in a region that is exposed when it is relatively moved to the left in the drawing and is also exposed when it is relatively moved to the right in the drawing.

  By adopting such a configuration, the operability of the user with respect to the numeric keypad can be improved, and the user can cope with any dominant hand.

<G. Keyboard keys on the operation panel device>
Next, an operation panel device equipped with a keyboard key that is a group of keys for inputting characters will be described. Such keyboard keys typically accept operations such as hiragana, katakana, and alphabet. For example, browser function is installed in image forming apparatus MFP, which is used for an operation such as a user inputting an access destination URL (Uniform Resource Locator) or the like.

  16 and 17 are schematic diagrams showing an example of keyboard key arrangement of operation panel device 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 16 shows an arrangement example of keyboard keys corresponding to the operation panel device 1 shown in FIG. That is, FIG. 16A shows an example in which the keyboard key 30e is arranged on the lower side of the first panel 100 in the drawing. In this case, as shown in FIG. 16B, the keyboard key 30e is arranged in a state of being embedded in the first panel 100.

  As shown in FIG. 17, in the panel located on the lower side (closer to the image forming apparatus MFP), when the keyboard keys 30e are arranged horizontally (arranged in the horizontal direction on the paper surface), the upper side as shown in FIG. The sliding direction of the panel located closer to the user is preferably the vertical direction with respect to the front surface of the operation panel device 1.

  Since the keyboard key 30e is composed of more keys than the numeric keypad 30a, the keyboard key 30e is preferably in a horizontally long arrangement.

  Thus, by arranging the keyboard key 30e in the normally hidden area of the panel located on the lower side, conventionally, a keyboard key storage space is required separately from the operation surface. By integrating these, overall space saving can be achieved.

<H. Co-arrangement of numeric keys and keyboard keys on the operation panel device>
Next, a description will be given of an operation panel device equipped with a numeric keypad for inputting numbers and a keyboard key as a key group for inputting characters.

  18 to 20 are schematic diagrams showing exemplary arrangements of numeric keys and keyboard keys of operation panel device 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 18 shows an arrangement example of numeric keys and keyboard keys corresponding to the operation panel device 1 shown in FIG. That is, FIG. 18A shows an example in which the numeric keypad 30a is arranged on the right side of the first panel 100 and the keyboard key 30e is arranged on the lower side of the page. As shown in FIG. 18B, a second panel 200 is provided so as to cover these numeric keys 30a and keyboard keys 30e.

  In the example shown in FIG. 18, the numeric keys 30a are arranged vertically (arranged in the vertical direction on the paper surface), and the keyboard keys 30e are arranged horizontally (arranged in the horizontal direction on the paper surface). As shown in FIGS. 19A to 19D, the panel positioned on the upper side (closer to the user) is slid in a necessary direction according to the key to be used among the numeric keypad 30a and the keyboard key 30e. That is, when the layout shown in FIG. 18 is adopted, it is preferable that the sliding direction of the panel located on the upper side (closer to the user) is both the left and right directions and the up and down directions with respect to the front of the operation panel device 1.

  More specifically, as shown in FIG. 19A, when neither the numeric keypad 30a nor the keyboard key 30e is used, the second panel 200 exists at a default position that covers the numeric keypad 30a and the keyboard key 30e. . Subsequently, as shown in FIG. 19B, the user who wants to operate the numeric keypad 30a slides the second panel 200 to the left side of the drawing to expose the numeric keypad 30a. Further, as shown in FIG. 19C, the user who wants to operate the keyboard key 30e slides the second panel 200 to the upper side of the drawing to expose the keyboard key 30e. As shown in FIG. 19D, the user who wants to operate both the numeric keypad 30a and the keyboard key 30e slides the second panel 200 to the upper left side of the drawing to expose the numeric keypad 30a and the keyboard key 30e.

  Also, as shown in FIGS. 20A to 20C, a layout in which the numeric keypad 30a and the keyboard key 30e are arranged on both sides of the one panel 100 may be adopted. In this example, the sliding direction of the panel located on the upper side (closer to the user) is the left-right direction with respect to the front surface of the operation panel device 1.

  More specifically, as shown in FIG. 20A, when neither the numeric keypad 30a nor the keyboard key 30e is used, the second panel 200 exists at a default position that covers the numeric keypad 30a and the keyboard key 30e. . Subsequently, as shown in FIG. 20B, the user who wants to operate the keyboard key 30e slides the second panel 200 to the right side of the drawing to expose the keyboard key 30e. In addition, as shown in FIG. 20C, the user who wants to operate the numeric keypad 30a slides the second panel 200 to the left side of the drawing to expose the numeric keypad 30a.

  Thus, by arranging the numeric keypad 30a and the keyboard key 30e in the normally hidden area of the panel located on the lower side, conventionally, a storage space for the keyboard key is required separately from the operation surface. By integrating the keyboard key 30e, overall space saving can be achieved.

  Further, since the direction of sliding the panel located on the upper side can be arbitrarily selected according to the key to be operated, the operability of the numeric keypad 30a and the keyboard key 30e can be improved.

<I. Configuration related to relative movement of panel>
Next, a configuration for realizing relative movement between panels constituting the operation panel device 1 will be described.

[I1: Sliding motion in one direction]
FIG. 21 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example for realizing relative movement of the panel of operation panel device 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 21 shows an example of a slide mechanism corresponding to the operation panel device 1 shown in FIG. Referring to FIG. 21, rails 111 and 112 for sliding second panel 200 slide on the surface of first panel 100 located on the lower side (close to image forming apparatus MFP) facing second panel 200. Arranged along the direction. The second panel 200 is engaged with the rails 111 and 112 while being movable in the left-right direction on the paper surface.

  22-24 is a figure which shows the slide mechanism 110 for implement | achieving the relative movement of the panel shown in FIG. With reference to FIG. 22A, the slide mechanism 110 includes an upper movable piece 121 and a lower movable piece 122. As shown in FIG. 22B, the upper movable piece 121 and the lower movable piece 122 move relative to each other along rails 111 and 112 provided in the vertical direction on the paper surface. The rails 111 and 112 regulate the movement of the upper movable piece 121 in a direction other than the sliding direction, that is, the movement in the horizontal direction and the vertical direction in FIG. 22B, while the upper movable piece in the sliding direction. The relative movement between 121 and the lower movable piece 122 is smoothly performed.

  The upper movable piece 121 and the lower movable piece 122 are connected via a torsion coil spring 123. Both ends of the torsion coil spring 123 are connected to the upper movable piece 121 and the lower movable piece 122 by step screws 124 and 125.

  FIG. 22 shows the state of the slide mechanism 110 corresponding to the state where the operation panel device 1 is closed, and FIG. 24 shows the state of the slide mechanism 110 corresponding to the state where the operation panel device 1 is opened. FIG. 23 shows a state in which the operation panel device 1 is in the transition from the closed state to the open state. During this sliding operation, as the distance between the upper movable piece 121 and the lower movable piece 122 changes, the urging force by the torsion coil spring 123 that connects the two movable pieces changes. That is, as shown in FIG. 24, when the operation panel device 1 is opened, the torsion coil spring 123 is in the most extended state, and the urging force of the torsion coil spring 123 generated thereby causes the upper movable piece 121 and the lower side to move downward. A force is generated between the movable piece 122 and a force to reduce the distance therebetween, that is, a force in a direction to return to the closed state. Therefore, when there is no mechanism for fixing between the panels, the panel slid by the user is restored to the original closed state.

  The upper movable piece 121 is mechanically coupled to the second panel 200, and the lower movable piece 122 is mechanically coupled to the first panel 100. The sliding operation between the panels in the operation panel device 1 can be realized by the mechanism operation as shown in FIGS.

  21 to 24 exemplify a configuration that slides in the left-right direction on the paper surface, but a configuration that slides in the vertical direction on the paper surface can be configured similarly.

  FIG. 25 is a schematic diagram showing another configuration example for realizing the relative movement of the panel of operation panel device 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 25, when sliding in the vertical direction on the paper, rails 113 and 114 for sliding the second panel 200 are arranged along the vertical direction on the paper. Thus, a sliding operation can be realized using the slide mechanism 110 as described above.

[I2: Slide operation in multiple directions]
21 to 25, the sliding operation in one direction has been described, but the sliding operation in a plurality of directions can be realized by using the above-described sliding mechanism.

  FIG. 26 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example for realizing relative movement in a plurality of directions of the panel of operation panel device 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 26A shows an example in which the first panel 100 and the second panel 200 are independently slid in the left-right direction and the vertical direction on the paper corresponding to the operation panel device 1 shown in FIG. That is, when the operation key groups are arranged in different areas as shown in FIG. 18, (1) a slide operation to the left side of the page, then a slide operation to the upper side of the page, and (2) an upper side of the page. After the slide operation, a slide operation to the left side of the paper surface and (3) a slide operation to the upper left side of the paper surface are performed.

  As a typical example for realizing such a sliding operation, as shown in FIG. 26B, between the first panel 100 and the second panel 200, the second panel 200 is slid in the left-right direction on the paper surface. The rails 111 and 112 and the rails 113 and 114 for sliding the second panel 200 in the vertical direction of the drawing are provided in different layers. More specifically, two slide mechanisms 110 as shown in FIGS. 22 to 24 can be used.

  By using such a plurality of slide mechanisms 110, a slide operation in a plurality of directions is realized. FIG. 27 is a schematic diagram more specifically showing the slide operation corresponding to the slide operations (1) to (3) shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 27A, it is assumed that second panel 200 is arranged on the upper side (near the user), and first panel 100 is arranged on the lower side (near image forming apparatus MFP). In this example, first, the second panel 200 is slid to the left side of the drawing, and then the second panel 200 is slid to the upper side of the drawing.

  In FIG. 27B, it is assumed that second panel 200 is arranged on the upper side (near the user) and first panel 100 is arranged on the lower side (near image forming apparatus MFP). In this example, first, the second panel 200 is slid to the upper side of the page, and then the second panel 200 is slid to the left side of the page.

  In FIG. 27C, it is assumed that second panel 200 is disposed on the upper side (closer to the user) and first panel 100 is disposed on the lower side (closer to image forming apparatus MFP). In this example, the second panel 200 is slid to the upper left side by a predetermined amount.

  Even when operation key groups are arranged in a plurality of different areas by such a slide operation, the user can selectively expose only the necessary operation key groups and use them.

<J. Configuration in which both panel and operation keys move relative to each other>
In the above description, the operation key group including the numeric keys is illustrated as being fixed to any panel. In addition to this, the operation key group may be configured to be independently slidable.

  FIG. 28 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration in which both the panel and the operation key group are relatively movable. FIGS. 28A to 28C are schematic views of the operation panel device 1 as viewed from the bottom surface side.

  As shown in FIG. 28A, the first panel 100 of the operation panel device 1 is provided with an operation key group 30 including a numeric keypad at the center. The operation key group 30 is configured to be slidable in the left-right direction on the paper surface. Then, the second panel 200 and the operation key group 30 move relative to each other according to the user's dominant hand.

  More specifically, as shown in FIG. 28 (B), the user whose right hand is right slides the second panel 200 to the left side of the drawing, and presses the operation key group 30 inscribed in the first panel 100. Slide to the right side of the page. As a result, the operation key group 30 is exposed in the area on the right side of the operation panel device 1, and the operability is improved for right-handed users. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 28C, the user whose left hand is the left side slides the second panel 200 to the right side of the drawing and slides the operation key group 30 inscribed in the first panel 100 to the left side of the drawing. To do. As a result, the operation key group 30 is exposed in an area on the left side of the operation panel device 1, and the operability is improved for a left-handed user.

  The sliding operation of the operation key group 30 and the sliding operation of the second panel 200 may be linked. In this case, when the user slides the second panel 200, the operation key group 30 moves to an appropriate position in conjunction with the slide operation. In this way, by sliding the second panel 200, the operation key group 30 that is normally located in the hidden area of the first panel 100 moves in the opposite direction in conjunction with the second panel 200 and is exposed. To do.

  That is, in the operation panel device 1 shown in FIG. 28, the first panel 100 includes a movable part in which the operation key group 30 is arranged. Then, in response to the relative movement of the first panel 100 and the second panel 200 in the right direction on the paper surface, the movable portion on which the operation key group 30 is disposed is relatively opposite to the right direction on the paper surface in the first panel 100. Moving. In addition, even when the first panel 100 and the second panel 200 are moved relative to each other to the left in the drawing, the movable part on which the operation key group 30 is arranged moves relatively in the opposite direction.

  By adopting such a configuration, the operability of the user with respect to the numeric keypad can be improved, and the user can cope with any dominant hand.

<K. Structural device for operation panel device>
Hereinafter, the device on the structure of the operation panel device 1 will be described.

[K1: Structure of ridge line part of upper panel]
In operation panel device 1 according to the present embodiment, one panel is slid to expose a group of operation keys including a numeric keypad formed on the surface of the other panel. At this time, with respect to the ridge line portion of the upper panel close to the exposed surface, it is preferable to make the side a smooth shape from the viewpoint of improving the visibility and operability of the user.

  FIG. 29 is a schematic diagram showing the shape of the upper panel constituting operation panel device 1 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 29 is a schematic view of the operation panel device 1 as viewed from the bottom side.

  As shown in FIG. 29, the operation key group 30 is arranged in a region exposed when the first panel 100 and the second panel 200 do not overlap, and the second panel 200 adjacent to the operation key group 30 is disposed. The ridgeline portion 210 (side of the operation key group 30) is processed into a smooth shape. More specifically, the ridgeline part 210 is inclined or chamfered with a predetermined curvature. That is, in the operation panel device 1 shown in FIG. 29, the second panel 200 ridge line portion 210 corresponding to the region exposed by the relative movement of the first panel 100 and the second panel 200 is configured in a non-right angle shape. Is done. Thus, the visibility and operativity with respect to the operation key group 30 can be improved by comprising the ridgeline part of the 2nd panel adjacent to the operation key group 30 of an upper panel in a smooth shape.

[K2: Structure for enhancing the pressure resistance from the user]
As described above, since the operation key group (a plurality of hard keys) is also arranged on the panel located on the upper side (closer to the user), the stress generated when the user operates (presses) these keys. It is preferable to adopt a structure that resists.

  FIG. 30 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a structure for increasing the pressure resistance from the user. 30, similarly to operation panel device 1 shown in FIG. 4, second panel 200 is arranged on the upper side (near the user), and first panel 100 is arranged on the lower side (near image forming apparatus MFP). A configuration example is shown. A display device 50 is disposed on the second panel 200 disposed on the upper side, and an operation key group 20 including one or more keys is disposed adjacent to the display device 50. The second panel 200 is configured to slide to the left side of the page.

  As described above, in the second panel 200 positioned on the upper side, the display device 50 (touch panel) is disposed on the same side as the moving direction of the second panel 200 (the left side in the drawing in the example of FIG. 30). The operation key group 20 is arranged on the side opposite to the moving direction. With this configuration, even when the second panel moves to the left side of the paper and protrudes (opened state), the area where the operation key group 20 is arranged overlaps the first panel 100. Therefore, it is possible to withstand an excessive load generated when the user presses the operation key group.

  That is, in the operation panel device 1 shown in FIG. 30, in the second panel 200 positioned on the upper side, the display device 50 is disposed on the same side as the moving direction of the second panel 200 and on the opposite side to the moving direction. An operation key group 20 is arranged. By adopting such a configuration, the strength of the operation panel device 1 can be ensured.

[K3: Structure that strengthens the connecting force between panels]
Next, a configuration for strengthening the coupling force between two panels will be illustrated.

  FIG. 31 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a structure for strengthening the coupling force between two panels. In FIG. 31, as with the operation panel device 1 shown in FIG. 4, the second panel 200 is disposed on the upper side (closer to the user), and the first panel 100 is disposed on the lower side (closer to the image forming apparatus MFP). A configuration example is shown.

  More specifically, in the operation panel device 1 shown in FIG. 31, the first panel 100 positioned on the lower side has an L-shaped cross-sectional shape. Thus, by making the cross-sectional shape of the lower panel L-shaped, it is possible to share a part of the proof strength for holding the second panel 200 positioned on the upper side.

  More specifically, as shown in FIG. 31A, the projected area of the second panel 200 positioned on the upper side is designed to be smaller than the projected area of the first panel 100 positioned on the lower side. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 31 (B), the lower shape in which the first panel 100 located on the lower side and the second panel 200 located on the upper side do not overlap is projected to the same height as the surface of the second panel 200. Adopting an L-shaped cross section. At this time, the surface of the second panel 200 is configured not to be higher than the surface of the first panel 100.

  That is, in operation panel device 1 shown in FIG. 30, first panel 100 is arranged on the side of image forming apparatus MFP, and second panel 200 is positioned with respect to first panel 100. It is arranged on the opposite side to the side to perform. The projected area of the second panel 200 with respect to the plane parallel to the display surface is smaller than the projected area of the first panel 100. The position of the region exposed at any relative position of the first panel 100 that is on the vertical line with respect to the display surface substantially matches the position of the exposed surface of the second panel 200.

  By adopting such a configuration, a part of the proof strength for holding the second panel 200 positioned on the upper side can be assigned to the first panel 100 positioned on the lower side. As a result, as shown in FIG. 31C, the coupling force between the panels can be increased as compared with the case where the first panel 100 and the second panel 200 are configured to have substantially the same cross-sectional shape. it can. Furthermore, even if the connection with the first panel 100 is removed due to the sliding of the second panel 200, the second panel 200 can be held in that position.

<L. Fixing structure between panels>
In operation panel device 1 according to the present embodiment, two operation panels are relatively moved to expose a group of operation keys that are normally arranged in a hidden area. In the slide mechanism 110 shown in FIGS. 22 to 24 described above, an example in which the two panels are urged to be closed by the torsion coil spring 123 is shown.

  On the other hand, depending on the usage pattern of the user, there is a need to maintain an open state. In such a case, it is preferable to employ a fixing structure for fixing the relative positional relationship between the panels.

  That is, the function which fixes in the state which the panel located in the upper side protruded from the panel located in the lower side is provided. By using such a function, it is possible to meet the need to constantly expose the operation key group, which is normally arranged at a hidden position, to the user. In addition, by fixing the operation key group that is normally arranged at a hidden position, it is possible to improve the stability during the operation by the user, or to reduce the possibility of breakage of the panel.

Therefore, in the following, such a structure for fixing between the panels will be described.
[L1: Screw fixing structure]
FIG. 32 is a schematic diagram (No. 1) showing a fixing structure between panels in operation panel device 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 32, similarly to operation panel device 1 shown in FIG. 4, second panel 200 is arranged on the upper side (near the user), and first panel 100 is arranged on the lower side (near image forming apparatus MFP). A configuration example is shown.

  In the configuration example shown in FIG. 32A, a through-hole 120 that penetrates a part of the first panel 100 in a direction perpendicular to the display surface is provided, and the second panel 200 is opened to the side where the first panel 100 is located. The engagement hole 220 is provided. As shown in FIG. 32B, the through hole 120 of the first panel 100 is perpendicular to the display surface when the operation panel device 1 is in an open state with the engagement hole 220 of the second panel 200. It is formed to be aligned in the direction. That is, as shown in FIG. 32B, the screw 410 is passed through the through hole 120 and the engagement hole 220 from the back surface of the first panel 100 on the image forming apparatus MFP side, so that the first panel 100 and the second panel Position the relative relationship with the panel 200.

  In this way, in the configuration example shown in FIG. 32, the fixing method between the panels employs a screwing mechanism from the back side of the first panel 100 located on the lower side. Such fixing between the panels has a lock shape that can be easily released.

  That is, operation panel device 1 shown in FIG. 32 includes a fixing mechanism for fixing a state where first panel 100 and second panel 200 do not overlap. This fixing mechanism is a screw 410 that is a stopper that penetrates the first panel 100 and the second panel 200 from the side opposite to the side on which the display surface exists.

[12: Claw-like lock structure]
FIG. 33 is a schematic diagram (No. 2) showing a fixing structure between panels in operation panel device 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 33, similarly to operation panel device 1 shown in FIG. 4, second panel 200 is disposed on the upper side (closer to the user), and first panel 100 is disposed on the lower side (closer to image forming apparatus MFP). A configuration example is shown.

  In the configuration example shown in FIG. 33, in place of the screw 410 in the configuration example shown in FIG. 32, a through bar 422 and a spring 420 that biases the through bar 422 are provided. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 33B, when the operation panel device 1 is in an open state, the through hole 120 of the first panel 100 is different from the engagement hole 220 of the second panel 200 on the display surface. The through bar 422 urged by the spring 420 passes through the through hole formed by the alignment in the vertical direction. Thereby, the relative relationship between the 1st panel 100 and the 2nd panel 200 is positioned. In addition, when changing the relative relationship between the 1st panel 100 and the 2nd panel 200, a user cancels | releases the urging | biasing force of the spring 420. FIG.

  As described above, in the configuration example shown in FIG. 33, a locking mechanism using a claw shape from the back side of the first panel 100 located on the lower side is employed as a fixing method between the panels. Such fixing between the panels has a lock shape that can be easily released.

  That is, operation panel device 1 shown in FIG. 33 includes a fixing mechanism for fixing a state where first panel 100 and second panel 200 do not overlap. This fixing mechanism is a penetrating bar 422 that is a bar-like stopper that penetrates the first panel 100 and the second panel 200 from the side opposite to the side on which the display surface exists. Furthermore, a spring 420 for urging a bar-like stopper (through bar 422) is further provided.

[L3: Lock structure with separate parts]
FIG. 34 is a schematic diagram (No. 3) showing a fixing structure between panels in operation panel device 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  In the configuration example shown in FIG. 34, a fixing component 440 customized for the operation panel device 1 is mounted instead of the screw 410 in the configuration example shown in FIG. The fixed component 440 is a deformed T-shaped member. When the operation panel device 1 is in an open state as shown in FIG. The engagement holes 220 of the two panels 200 are aligned in a direction perpendicular to the display surface, and a part of the fixing component 440 passes through the through hole generated by the alignment. Thereby, the relative relationship between the 1st panel 100 and the 2nd panel 200 is positioned.

  Further, the first panel 100 is provided with an engagement hole 130. The engagement hole 220 is a hole for mounting the fixed component 440 from the back surface of the operation panel device 1. That is, the fixing component 440 is fixed to the operation panel device 1 from the back surface side by the screw 450 passing through the through hole provided in the fixing component 440 and the engagement hole 130 provided in the back surface of the first panel 100. .

  As described above, in the configuration example shown in FIG. 34, the locking method using the separate parts from the back side of the first panel 100 located on the lower side is employed as the fixing method between the panels. Such fixing between the panels has a lock shape that can be easily released.

  That is, operation panel device 1 shown in FIG. 34 includes a fixing mechanism for fixing a state where first panel 100 and second panel 200 do not overlap. This fixing mechanism is a fixing component 440 that is a stopper that penetrates the first panel 100 and the second panel 200 from the side opposite to the side on which the display surface exists.

<M. Relationship between operation panel device and paper discharge direction>
Since operation panel device 1 according to the present embodiment is mounted on image forming apparatus MFP, it is preferable to design a more appropriate arrangement position and sliding direction in relation to the operation of image forming apparatus MFP by the user. Hereinafter, a more preferable position and slide direction of operation panel device 1 will be described in relation to the paper discharge direction of paper discharged from image forming apparatus MFP.

[M1: Installation position]
FIG. 35 is a diagram for illustrating a preferred mounting position of operation panel device 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 35 shows an example in which operation panel device 1 is attached to the side opposite to the paper discharge direction of image forming apparatus MFP. At this time, operation panel device 1 is preferably attached at a position that does not protrude from the side of the main body of image forming apparatus MFP. In other words, the position of the side surface (right side surface of the paper in the example of FIG. 35) of the operation panel device 1 is the same as or the position of the corresponding side surface (right side surface of the paper in the example of FIG. 35). The operation panel device 1 is attached so as to exist.

  In other words, operation panel device 1 is arranged on the side opposite to the paper discharge direction of image forming apparatus MFP and at a position that does not protrude from the side surface of image forming apparatus MFP. By adopting such an attachment position, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the visibility of the user to the tray on which the paper is discharged in the presence of the operation panel device 1 is hindered.

[M2: Slide direction (1)]
FIG. 36 is a diagram for describing a preferred sliding direction of operation panel device 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention. In operation panel device 1 shown in FIG. 36A, the sliding direction of the moving panel is designed to be the same as the paper discharge direction in image forming apparatus MFP. In other words, in operation panel device 1, the direction in which first panel 100 or second panel 200 is moved in order to generate an exposed region is the same as the paper discharge direction of image forming apparatus MFP.

  By setting such a slide direction, the panel changes in the same direction as the paper discharge direction in the image forming apparatus MFP, and the panel protrudes from the image forming apparatus MFP main body. Can reduce the possibility of damage.

[M3: slide direction (2)]
On the other hand, in operation panel device 1 shown in FIG. 36 (B), the sliding direction of the moving panel is designed to be opposite to the paper discharge direction in image forming apparatus MFP. That is, in operation panel device 1, the direction in which first panel 100 or second panel 200 is moved in order to generate the exposed region is the opposite direction to the paper discharge direction of image forming apparatus MFP.

  By setting the slide direction as described above, the panel on which the operation panel device 1 moves moves to the side opposite to the paper discharge direction, so that the user with respect to the tray on which paper is discharged in the presence of the operation panel device 1 The possibility of hindering the visibility of the image can be reduced.

<N. Pop-up structure>
When the second panel including the display device 50 (touch panel) is fixed to the image forming apparatus MFP as in the operation panel device 1 shown in FIG. 6 described above, the following pop-up structure may be employed. it can. This pop-up structure will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 37 is a schematic diagram showing operation panel device 1 employing a pop-up structure according to the embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIGS. 6 and 37, operation key group 30 is provided on first panel 100, and first panel 100 moves relative to second panel 200 fixed to image forming apparatus MFP. It will be. Here, second panel 200 includes upper casing 200-1 and lower casing 200-2, and lower casing 200-2 is fixed to image forming apparatus MFP. The upper casing 200-1 and the lower casing 200-2 are configured so that the cross section thereof is substantially C-shaped. That is, a space in which the first panel 100 can be inserted is formed between the upper housing 200-1 and the lower housing 200-2. When the user performs a predetermined operation by arranging a mechanism for biasing the first panel 100 outward in this space, as shown in FIG. 37 (B), the second panel 200 (upper housing 200- 1 and the lower housing 200-2) are relatively moved so that the first panel 100 pops out (pops up).

  That is, operation panel device 1 shown in FIG. 37 has display device 50 that provides a display surface, and this display device 50 is attached to second panel 200 that is fixed to image forming apparatus MFP. On the other hand, on the first panel 100 different from the second panel 200 fixed to the image forming apparatus MFP, a numeric keypad that is a key group for inputting numbers is arranged. When the user uses the numeric keypad, the first panel 100 pops up.

  Thus, by hiding operation keys that are relatively infrequently used, the space of the operation panel device can be saved. Even in this case, the user can operate by sliding the panel to expose these operation key groups.

  The embodiment disclosed this time should be considered as illustrative in all points and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, rather than the description above, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.

  1 operation panel device, 2 scanner, 4 feeder, 6 print engine, 8 tray, 9 paper feed unit, 10, 20, 30 operation key group, 10a energy saving button, 10b start button, 10c stop button, 10d reset button, 10e customization Button, 20a menu button, 20b enlarge button, 20c guidance button, 20d button, 20d access button, 20e preview button, 20e button, 30a numeric keypad, 30b voice guide key, 30c clear key, 30d interrupt key, 30e keyboard key, 40 surface Area, 50 display device, 100 first panel, 110 slide mechanism, 111, 112, 113, rail, 120 through-hole, 121 upper movable piece, 122 lower movable piece, 123 coil spring, 24-step screw, 130, 220 engagement hole, 200 second panel, 200 upper housing, 200 lower housing, 210 ridge line portion, 410, 450 screw, 420 spring, 422 through bar, 440 fixing component, MFP image forming apparatus .

Claims (25)

An operation panel device having a display surface attached to an image forming apparatus,
A first panel and a second panel configured to be relatively movable along a plane parallel to the display surface, wherein one of the first and second panels is fixed to the image forming apparatus;
At least one of the first and second panels includes a first group of keys arranged in a region that is exposed regardless of the first panel and the second panel,
One of the first and second panels includes an operation panel device including a second group of keys arranged in an area exposed when the first panel and the second panel do not overlap. The first group of keys is used in common over a plurality of processes that can be executed by the image forming apparatus,
2. The second group key is used for a number of processes smaller than the number of processes in which the first group key is used among a plurality of processes that can be executed by the image forming apparatus. Operation panel device. A display device for providing the display surface;
The operation panel device according to claim 1, wherein the display device is attached to a panel different from a panel fixed to the image forming apparatus. The first panel is fixed to the image forming apparatus;
The second panel is disposed on a side opposite to the side on which the image forming apparatus is positioned with respect to the first panel.
The projected area of the second panel with respect to a plane parallel to the display surface is smaller than the projected area of the first panel,
The first panel is
The first group of keys arranged in a region exposed at any relative position with respect to the second panel;
The second group of keys arranged in a region exposed when the first panel and the second panel do not overlap,
The second panel is
4. The operation panel device according to claim 1, comprising the first group of keys arranged in a region exposed at any relative position with respect to the first panel. 5.   The operation panel device according to claim 4, wherein the second group of keys arranged on the second panel includes a key group for inputting numbers.   The mechanism that allows the first panel and the second panel to move relative to each other is configured to vary the exposure amount of the region where the second group of keys of the second panel is arranged in a plurality of stages. The operation panel device according to claim 5. The first panel and the second panel are relatively movable in both a first direction and a second direction opposite to the first direction,
The second panel is disposed in a second group of keys disposed in a region exposed when the relative movement is performed in the first direction and in a region exposed when the relative movement is performed in the second direction. The operation panel device according to claim 5, further comprising a second group of keys. The first panel and the second panel are relatively movable in both a first direction and a second direction opposite to the first direction,
The first panel includes a second group of keys disposed in a region that is exposed when the relative movement is performed in the first direction and is also exposed when the relative movement is performed in the second direction. The operation panel device according to claim 5.   The said 2nd group key arrange | positioned at the said 1st panel further contains the interruption key arrange | positioned adjacent to the key group for inputting a number. The operation panel device described.   The said 2nd group key arrange | positioned at the said 1st panel further contains the audio | voice guide key arrange | positioned adjacent to the key group for inputting a number. The operation panel device described in 1.   The operation panel device according to claim 4, wherein the second group of keys arranged on the first panel includes a key group for inputting characters.   The operation panel device according to claim 11, wherein the second group of keys arranged on the first panel further includes a key group for inputting numbers. The first panel includes a movable part in which the second group of keys is arranged,
In response to the relative movement of the first panel and the second panel in the first direction, the movable portion is a second of the first panel that is opposite to the first direction. The operation panel device according to claim 4, wherein the operation panel device moves relative to each other.   The ridgeline part of the said 2nd panel corresponding to the area | region exposed by a relative movement of the said 1st panel and the said 2nd panel is comprised by the shape of a non-right angle. Operation panel device.   4. The operation panel according to claim 3, wherein in the second panel, the display device is arranged on the same side as the movement direction of the second panel, and a key is arranged on the opposite side to the movement direction. apparatus. The first panel is disposed on the image forming apparatus side,
The second panel is disposed on a side opposite to the side on which the image forming apparatus is positioned with respect to the first panel.
The projected area of the second panel with respect to a plane parallel to the display surface is smaller than the projected area of the first panel,
The position of the region exposed in any relative position of the first panel on the vertical line with respect to the display surface substantially coincides with the position of the exposed surface of the second panel. Item 4. The operation panel device according to Item 1.   The operation panel device according to claim 1, further comprising a fixing mechanism for fixing a state in which the first panel and the second panel do not overlap.   The operation panel device according to claim 17, wherein the fixing mechanism includes a stopper penetrating the first panel and the second panel from a side opposite to a side on which the display surface exists.   The operation panel device according to claim 18, wherein the fixing mechanism further includes a mechanism that biases the rod-shaped stopper.   The operation panel device according to claim 1, wherein the operation panel device is disposed on a side opposite to a paper discharge direction of the image forming apparatus and at a position not protruding from a side surface of the image forming apparatus.   The operation panel device according to claim 1, wherein a direction in which the first panel or the second panel is moved in order to generate an exposed region is the same as the paper discharge direction.   The operation panel device according to claim 1, wherein a direction in which the first panel or the second panel is moved to generate an exposed region is opposite to the paper discharge direction. A display device for providing the display surface;
The operation panel device according to claim 1, wherein the display device is attached to a panel fixed to the image forming apparatus.   24. The operation panel device according to claim 23, wherein a key group for inputting numbers is arranged on a panel different from the panel fixed to the image forming apparatus.   An image forming apparatus including the operation panel device according to claim 1.

Images